WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE FREE?

At the end of a year when it’s often felt like their freedoms have been stripped from them in countless, relentless ways, Envision Academy’s 10th grade English students were asked to reflect on the frustrations and celebrations, joy and grief, fear and even apathy of this past year to find their own answer to a question that the entire world seems to be wrestling with: What does it mean to be free?

Some interviewed family members and peers, creating short documentary films. Others found outlet and inspiration in music and visual arts, both original and found. Still others turned to their notebooks and processed their thoughts through personal essays and poetry.

The collection of work that has resulted shows the heart of this group. It is raw and vulnerable and brave and reveals an astonishing amount of courage.

We hope you enjoy it. But even more, we hope you feel challenged to consider your own answer to this question long after you’ve finished reading.